Keeping of Bees
For beekeeping within the townsites of Byford, Mundijong, Jarrahdale and Serpentine, you will need to obtain a permit from the Shire. Residents in areas outside of these town sites are permitted to keep bee hives, provided that they do not cause a nuisance.
How many hives can I have?
- On land that is less than 2,000 metres² - the occupier can have up to two bee hives.
- On land that is between 2,000 metres² and 20,000 metres² - the occupier can have up to 15 bee hives.
Conditions of keeping bees?
A person who keeps bees and hives is to ensure that:
- A permanent and accessible water supply is provided.
- The hive is kept at least 10 metres from any building.
- The hive is kept at least 10 metres from any footpath, private street/laneway, or public place.
- The hive is kept at least 10 metres from any boundary of the lot.
- Each bee hive is located near a screen or other barrier to prevent bees flying low over a thoroughfare, public place or adjoining land.
At any point should the Shire Officers determine that a person has contravened any provision of the Beekeeping Local Law, conditions of a permit may be varied or the permit cancelled and a written notice be issued to remove all bees and hives. Penalties do apply.
Application for permit to keep bees
If you live within a townsite and wish to keep bee hives, an application form must be submitted to the Manager of Building and Health. Along with the application form, the following should be attached:
(Obtained through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development which will provide you with a unique brand identifier)
- A site plan of the property the hives are to be kept on, detailing;
- Size of property
- Water available
- Distances from thoroughfare, public places and boundaries
- Location of hives
- Applicable fee.
For information on obtaining your Certificate of registration as a beekeeper, please refer to the below link;
Becoming a beekeeper in Western Australia